The year-long celebration marking the 350th Jubilee of Bom Jesus Church, Nachinola, reached its magnificent conclusion with a solemn and spiritually enriching celebration that reflected the enduring faith, unity, and rich heritage of our Parish Community.
The Jubilee concluding celebration commenced with the arrival of Bishop Alex Dias, who was accorded a warm and memorable welcome with a bouquet. Young children dressed as angels received the Bishop by showering flower petals, creating a beautiful and symbolic reminder of God’s abundant blessings upon the Parish. Members of the Confraria and Parish representatives also welcomed the Bishop. Bishop Alex Dias unveiled the 350th Jubilee Commemorative Plaque, a lasting testament to three and a half centuries of unwavering faith, before entering the church for the Solemn Eucharistic Celebration.
The Pontifical Mass was celebrated by Bishop Alex Dias, joined by priests who are sons of the soil, former Parish Priests, the Dean of Aldona Deanery, and our Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Romualdo Robin Rodrigues. The liturgy was enriched by a magnificent choir under the direction of Fr. Francisco Miranda, whose dedication and musical leadership added a profound sense of reverence to the celebration. Fr. Miranda was also instrumental in composing the Parish hymn and the Rosary dedicated to Bom Jesus, leaving the parish with a spiritual legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.
Before the Eucharistic celebration commenced, grandparents representing each Somudai were invited to light the 350th Jubilee Lamp. This deeply meaningful gesture symbolised the passing of faith from one generation to the next, honouring those whose steadfast witness has preserved and nurtured the Catholic faith in Nachinola for centuries.
His Grace Bishop Alex Dias presided over the Eucharistic celebrations along with Parish priest Fr. Romualdo Robin Rodrigues, the Dean of Aldona Deanery Fr. Mario Leitâo, the previous Parish priest Fr. Francisco X. Fernandes, Fr. Biju, Fr. Menino Mendes, Fr. Paul (Dominican) and Fr. Dion. Three sons of the soil, Fr. Jaime Couto, Fr. Dionisio Manoel Rodrigues ( SFX ) and Fr. Domnic D’Cruz, also participated in the Eucharistic celebrations
In his inspiring homily, Bishop Alex Dias reflected on the Jubilee theme, “Let Us Live in Faith, Hope and Love.” He reminded the faithful that while the Jubilee celebrations had come to an end, the spirit of the Jubilee must continue to live in every heart. Faith, he emphasised, is not confined to a commemorative year but is a lifelong journey that must continually deepen and bear fruit.
The Bishop congratulated the parish for embracing such a meaningful Jubilee theme and beautifully illustrated its significance through a touching anecdote. He narrated the story of a child trapped in a burning building who was asked by his father to jump from the first floor. Though the child could not see his father below, he trusted the familiar voice calling him. That leap of trust became a powerful reminder that true faith often means believing even when we cannot see, trusting completely in the One who never fails us. It was a moving reflection on the enduring virtues of faith, hope, and love that resonated deeply with the congregation.
At the conclusion of the Mass, Fr. Romualdo Robin Rodrigues expressed heartfelt gratitude to Bishop Alex Dias and all the concelebrating priests for their presence and prayers. He especially appreciated Fr. Francisco Miranda for his invaluable contribution to liturgical music. He acknowledged the tireless efforts of the Parish Pastoral Council, Parish association units, volunteers, benefactors, and every parishioner whose dedication made the Jubilee celebrations a remarkable success.
Later, Fr. Dion Rodrigues solemnly read the Apostolic Blessing and message received from the Holy Father, conveying the Pope’s prayers and blessings upon the Parish Community. Thereafter, the Parish Pastoral Council Moderator presented a brief overview of the 350th Jubilee Souvenir, highlighting the months of research, dedication, and collaboration that culminated in this treasured publication. The Souvenir was then formally released by Bishop Alex Dias amid warm applause from the faithful.
The occasion also provided an opportunity to recognise excellence and service within the Parish. Students who were successful in their exams were felicitated. The Parish Pastoral Council were given a memento, in appreciation of their dedicated service to the Church and Community.
The celebrations concluded in the true Christian spirit of fellowship as parishioners, guests, clergy, and well-wishers gathered for a community dinner. Conversations, laughter, and shared memories filled the evening, reflecting the unity that has characterised the Parish throughout its 350-year journey.
As the curtain falls on this historic Jubilee Year, the legacy it leaves behind extends far beyond commemorative plaques, publications, and celebrations. It has renewed hearts, strengthened faith, fostered deeper communion, and reminded every parishioner that they are living stones in the continuing vibrant life of Bom Jesus Church, Nachinola.
May the next chapter of our Parish history be guided by the same unwavering faith, steadfast hope, and selfless love that have sustained this community for three and a half centuries. As we move forward, may the words of our Jubilee theme continue to inspire every family and every generation: Let Us Live in Faith, Hope and Love.
Savio Fernandes
Parish Council Moderator
